Wales and The Peak District

Two days after Zuoz camps finished I flew to Wales, thankfully the day after horrendous thunder and lightning storms. I was so lucky!

I always experience mixed feelings as we approach Cardiff Airport over The Bristol Channel. I am wowed by the scenery, but at the same time anxious that we will not land in the sea!

I prefer to admire the coast from a beach, or better still, the cliffs of Rossilli. It was well worrh the fairly long trip there for these spectacular views. Can this really be Britain? It was incredible weather and the golden beaches are what you would possibly expect more in France or Spain. This is Ceri's favourite place, and certainly one of mine here in Wales. It was a bit warmer than the last time we were there campimg!

The 180 degree views are simply breathtaking. The colours were absolutely stunning, with that wonderful combination of blue seas and skies, a few wispy white clouds, golden fields of corn and golden sands, and the beautiful grey, curved stone walla.

So often in France or Spain, I have been frustrated by the fact that I could not stop to view the fields of sunflowers close up. Today, it was a dream come true. Fields upon fields of enormous sunflowers, which were open to the public to enjoy - and we did. Despite the crowds of admiring visitors, we were able to get lost amongst these spectacular blooms, slightly battered by recent storms, but nevertheless gorgeous, especially contrasted with the sky!

With stunning views out to sea and along the cliffs, and surrounded on all sides by vivid yellow sunflower heads, I felt as if All my dreams had come true at once. It was one of the most memorable experiences I have ever had, and it was great to share these moments with Ceri.

A truly sensational afternoon!

Sadly, I had not allowed more time in Wales, and had to make do with 4 fabulous days with the family and dogs! 

My sister Annie and I then took trains to the Peak District, to the pretty little spa town of Buxton.

After a day of rain, we were lucky enough to have two perfect days, windy and cool, but dry and sunny. We did, however, venture underground to Poole Cavern, a magnificent cave of stalactites and mites. It was an excellent tour. This area was called the 'poached egg' cavern because the stalacmites have white and yellow tips!?

Above ground was equally impressive, particularly the view over Buxton and the Peak district from the so- called Solomon's tower. From the photo it is impossible to appreciate how strongly the wind was gusting there, making it hard to hold the Ipad steady!

We continued to play tourists in the evening, taking a converted milk trolley on a tour around the city. The driver/ guide was very informative and amusing, and the tram, Wonder of the Peak,  was very special.

Our last stop was at the oldest building in the town, St Anne's Church, formerly a tithe barn. It was very pretty, both in and out. It was tucked away around a corner, so I am sure we would not have seen it, had it not been for the tour.

On the last day Annie and I separated and did our own thing. I was keen to visit Whaley Bridge, which should have been my canal trip's destination. Unfortunately, the dam of the reservoir above the little village very nearly broke and the village was evacuated, so our canal trip route has been altered. The villagers have returned now that the reservoir has been emptied and the dam repaired. 

I had a lovely day ambling along the Goyt canal looking forward to my upcoming trip over the next week. What a wonderfully relaxed way of life it seems, and what beautiful narrowboats.

The Peaks loom above the peaceful valleys with their network of canals and locks.

Some of the properties along the canals are magnificent, with steep, yet incredibly well- kept, colourful gardens. I had such a restful day and met so many friendly people on the way. 

I can't wait to get started on my trip on  the Duke and Duchess tomorrow!